The Principles of Medical Device Decontamination

Table 6.1 - Trouble shooting high microbial counts in the final rinse water

Checkpoint

Answer

Water Supply and Pipework (including Distribution Rings): l Confirm if the water supply prior to the EWD is tank fed or mains water supply? l Is there a water softener fitted to the main hospital supply? l If so, is this being maintained properly with appropriate backwash and cleaning regime? l Is it still in circuit and not bypassed and acting as a large dead end?

It is recommended that a test point for water sampling is fitted

at the softener if required for further investigations. Note: They

can often be a source of growth if not managed correctly l Are there any dead legs in the system? How many? Can they be removed?

Note: They may be hidden in the ceiling space or walls etc.

l Has there been any water supply or distribution system changes in the hospital water network that could have affected the water quality supply to the endoscopy decontamination unit?

Note: This could include treatment changes, pipework

replacement, tank cleaning or treatment, water softener

changes etc

l Is there a pattern to the microbiology results over time? Graph them l Has any remedial work been carried out in the building by contractors or estates staff that could have caused the problems? l Have any sinks, bath, showers, or toilet outlets changed or been removed in the vicinity of the decontamination facility but leaving a dead leg?

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